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Belum Caves
Belum Caves, located in Nandyala district of Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, represent the second largest cave system in the Indian subcontinent, known for its spectacular speleothems including stalactite and stalagmite formations. These caverns feature galleries, ornate tunnels, and large rooms with natural siphons and fresh water. Rising to a height of 3,229 metres (10,593.8 ft), the Belum Caves are the second largest cave system in the Indian subcontinent, surpassed only by the Krem Liat Prah Caves in Meghalaya. They are acknowledged as a monument of national importance.
Although the Belum Caves were known to the local people, they were first discovered by the British geologist and archaeologist Robert Bruce Foote in 1884. It was as part of his expedition, and there is evidence that the first records of the site exist from the report. During 1982 and 1984, a team of German speleologists led by H Daniel Gebauer thoroughly explored the caves. The Andhra Pradesh government declared the site as a protected area in 1988, and the caverns were opened to tourists in February 2002 by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). The Belum Caves have been explored for 3.5 km (2.2 mi), of which 1.5 km (0.9 mi) is accessible to visitors. The main entrance is one of 16 entrances to the caves, which also have black limestone formations with quartz deposits.
Location
Belum Caves are situated close to Belum village in Andhra Pradesh’s Kolimigundla Mandal of Nandyala District, which was once Kurnool District.
The Belum caverns are a component of the Erramalai region’s larger network of limestone caverns. Among the well-known caverns in this network are Muchatla Chintamanu Caves, Sanyasula Caves, Yaganti Caves, Yarrajari Caves, and Billasurgam Caves. These caverns are referred to as “Gavi” in the local tongue.
Discovery
Belum Caves was known to the locals, but it wasn’t until British geologist and archaeologist Robert Bruce Foote’s 1884 study that the site was mentioned. Before a German team led by Herbert Daniel Gebauer thoroughly explored the caverns in 1982 and 1983, they were largely unknown for over a century. Many people, including Mr. Bacham Chalapathy Reddy provided invaluable assistance for this trip to Germany .
In the caves, the remains of antique vessels from 4,500 BC were found.
The British geologist and archaeologist The tunnels were inhabited by Buddhist and Jain monks more than two thousand years ago, as Mr. Robert Bruce Foote documented in 1884.
- Herbert Daniel Gebauer, a German, investigated in 1982.
- In 1983, a German named Herbert Daniel Gebauer carried out an inquiry.
- In 1988, the Andhra Pradesh government declared it to be protected.
- July 2002: The discovery of a musical chamber.
- A novel species of cavernicolous isopod, which inhabits caverns, January 2013 saw the discovery of Andhracoides gebaueri.
Historical Importance
The Belum Caves have significant geological and historical significance since there is evidence that they were inhabited by Buddhist and Jain monks thousands of years ago. Numerous Buddhist relics discovered within the caves are now preserved in a museum in Ananthapur. Remains of pre-Buddhist vessels were also discovered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which dates these artifacts to around 4500 BCE.
Belum Caves Timings
Planning to visit the mesmerizing Belum Caves? What you should know about the timeframes is as follows:
Timings:
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Important Notes:
Closed on Mondays.
On festivals or special events, timings may change.
It is best to confirm the most recent hours before to your visit.
Why Visit Belam Caves?
Natural wonder: Erosion over millions of years created caves, which are a geological wonder.
The Belum Caves in the Kurnool district of Rayalaseema can be said to be a geological wonder. With their remarkable rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, these second-longest caverns in India provide a singular underground experience.
Tips for your visit:
Best time to visit: Belum Caves
Winter (November to February) is the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather. Avoid rush hour by going early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wear comfortable shoes: Because cave tunnels can be slick, it’s critical to wear strong, comfy shoes.
Bring a water bottle: It’s a good idea to bring a water bottle, especially in the summer, even if there are water facilities nearby. Drink plenty of water while exploring, particularly in the heat.
Respect the environment by not trash, touching delicate buildings, or upsetting natural formations.
Photography: Flash photography is not permitted within the caves, although other types of photography are permitted.
Even though the caverns are well-lit, it’s still helpful to have a torch with you when exploring the darkest areas.
Guided Tours: To gain an understanding of the history, geology, and distinctive forms of the caves, it is advised to accompany a competent guide. It improves your experience.
Why Visit Belam Caves?
One of India’s longest and biggest cave systems, Belum Caves, provides a singular underground experience. For those who love the outdoors and history, these caverns are a must-see because of its breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations, underground rivers, and historic inscriptions.
Entry Fees
Belum Caves Enrty fee is,
for adults: 65 INR children: 45 INR.
Take pictures and videos without paying extra.
The entrance to the Belum Caves was initially small, but was later widened with a staircase for the convenience of visitors. With two pits visible next to each other and a third a bit farther away, the entrance looks like any other cave. Evidence suggests that a speleologist explored and mapped the caves in mid-1982. Daniel Gebauer is honored in the first portion, which faces Gebauer Hall. Adjacent to the main entrance is a second aperture that leads to Gebauer Hall.
Yaganti to Belum Caves Distance
From Yaganti to Belum Caves: A Pilgrimage
Yaganti and Belum Caves are two important shrines in Andhra Pradesh, India that offer a unique spiritual and geographical experience. Many pilgrims often combine visits to these two holy places.
belum caves to yaganti distance
The approximate distance between Yaganti and Belum caves is 45 kms.
Travel options:
Although the distance is very short, the best way to travel between the two places is by private car or taxi. It allows you to explore the scenic route and stop at various points of interest.
How to reach:
Road: It is the most common way to travel between two places. You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle. The journey usually takes around 1 hour.
Public Transport: Although public transport options are limited, you can take a bus to the nearest town and then hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach your destination.
Why visit both places?
Natural Beauty: The journey between the two places offers scenic beauty including lush green landscapes and serene river views.
Historical Significance: Belum Caves, one of the largest and longest caves in India, offer a glimpse into the geological past.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy delicious local cuisine, especially vegetarian dishes.
Natural Beauty: The journey between the two places offers scenic beauty including lush green landscapes and serene river views.
Accommodation: Both Yaganti and Belum Caves have a wide range of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Kurnool to Belum Caves Distance
kurnool to belum caves
Planning a trip to Belum Caves from Kurnool?
Belum Caves, one of the largest and longest cave systems in India, is a fascinating underground world that attracts visitors from all over. If you’re starting your journey from Kurnool, here’s what you need to know:
Distance:
The distance between Kurnool and Belum caves is about 110 km.
Travel options:
Road Trip:
By Car: The most convenient way to reach Belum Caves from Kurnool is to hire a car or take a taxi. The journey usually takes 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions.
By Bus: Government and private buses ply between Kurnool and nearby towns. From there, you can hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the caves.
Train:
You can travel by train to Tadipatri which is the nearest railway station to Belum Caves. From Tadipatri, you can hire a taxi or a bus to reach the caves.
Tadipatri to Belum Caves Distance
Belum Caves is a fascinating underground wonder located near Tadipatri in Andhra Pradesh. The distance between Tadipatri and Belum caves is about 30 kms.
How to reach Belum Caves from Tadipatri:
Road Route:
Car or Taxi: This is the most convenient mode of travel. The journey usually takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Bus: Regular bus services are available between Tadipatri and Belum Caves. This is a budget-friendly option, but the journey may take longer.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is Tadipatri Railway Station. From here, you can hire a taxi or bus to reach Belum Caves.
Local Transport:
You can also hire a local auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the caves.
Belum Caves to Gandikota Distance
the distance
The distance between Belum Caves and Gandikota is about 60 kms. This distance can be reached by road in about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Best way to travel:
Car or Taxi: This is the most convenient way to travel as it stops at scenic viewpoints and allows you to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
Bus: Government and private buses ply between the two destinations. However, travel time may be longer due to frequent stops.
Also Read : Yaganti Temple History
